Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 January 2021
249. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health if passenger data for persons who are travelling to Northern Ireland via Dublin airport is being shared with the Northern Ireland Executive on public health grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4686/21]
View answerThere has been, and continues to be, engagement between myself and Minister Swann, and our officials, on data sharing from respective passenger locator forms. I most recently met with Minister Swann about the issue on the 20th of January.
Our Departments are finalising arrangements to allow the transfer of relevant data, taking account of data protection and other legal requirements. Both Departments acknowledge the good contacts and cooperation on this topic and more generally in responding to COVID19.
There is agreement that, as an interim measure, my Department will provide a follow-up text message service to passengers who travel on from Ireland to Northern Ireland, using the existing system for follow up contact with passengers.
I am aware of the risks posed to the entire island by international travel during the pandemic and am committed to strong, effective, and appropriate cooperation in order to manage these risks.
Question No. 250 answered with Question No. 248.
